Jeffersonia diphylla

Jeffersonia diphylla (L.) Pers.

Twinleaf

Synonym(s):

The simple leaf at the apex of each stem is divided into two identical parts. Leaves have reached only half their mature height, 12-18, when the leafless flower stalk produces a white, 8-petaled, star-like blossom. Fruit is a pipe-like capsule that pops open when ripe.

The solitaryflower somewhat resembles that of Bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis), but the latter species has palmately compound leaves with 5-9 lobes. Although both common and species names suggest a plant with two leaves, there are actually more; each leaf is divided into two nearly separate leaflets. The genus was named in honor of Thomas Jefferson by his friend and fellow botanist William Bartram. Only one other species of twinleaf occurs in the world: J. dubia, found in Japan.

Growing Conditions

Light Requirement: Part Shade Soil Moisture: Moist Soil pH: Acidic (pH<6.8) Soil Description: Rich, damp soils. Conditions Comments: The petals of this flower are extremely fragile and often drop at the first gust of wind or light shower. Young plants do not compete well and should be kept free of weeds. The plant has pairs of angel wing shaped leaves. (Lamb/Rhynard)

Benefit

Use Medicinal: Plants of Jeffersonia diphylla were used medicinally by Native Americans for treatment of dropsy, gravel and urinary ailments, and for gall and diarrhea, and in poultices for sores and ulcers (D. E. Moermann 1986). Conspicuous Flowers: yes

Propagation

Description: Easily propagated by seed, which should be sown immediately upon ripening and should not be allowed to dry out. Seedlings take 4-5 years to develop into flowering-sized plants. Large plants may be divided at the end of the growing season. Seed Collection: Seeds should be collected 3-4 weeks after the bloom period. The capsule is green, pear-shaped and 1 in. long, splitting open when the seeds are ripe. Seeds lose viability quickly in storage. Seed Treatment: Not Available Commercially Avail: yes